OverviewMarianne and Elinor Dashwood don’t have very good marriage prospects. Their father has passed away, leaving the estate to their half brother, and the family has fallen on hard times. Sensible Elinor’s heart is won by Edward, but then Edward mysteriously leaves without making her any promises. Once the family moves to a smaller cottage, passionate Marianne falls for the dashing Mr. Willoughby, but he turns out to be a rogue. The girls eventually find happiness, but heartache comes first. Marianne’s headstrong emotions go against conventional propriety and cause her to make a foolish choice that results in a near-death illness. She is saved by heroic Colonel Brandon. Elinor suffers in silence until Edward is at last free to marry her.